Polyvagal Theory, developed by Stephen Porges, provides a neuroscience framework that explains many aspects of cognitive reappraisal in terms of the nervous system's safety-detection mechanisms.
The Three States of Polyvagal Theory and Cognitive Reappraisal
Ventral vagal (safe and social): Optimal state for connection, learning, and cognitive reappraisal management
Sympathetic mobilization (fight or flight): Anxiety-type cognitive reappraisal responses
Dorsal vagal shutdown (freeze/collapse): Depression and dissociation-type cognitive reappraisal
Neuroception and Cognitive Reappraisal
Neuroception — the body's unconscious safety-detection — can be dysregulated in cognitive reappraisal, causing false alarms (sensing danger when safe) that drive cognitive reappraisal responses.
Polyvagal-Informed Cognitive Reappraisal Treatment
Therapy that acknowledges the body's state — helping clients move into ventral vagal 'safe and social' — transforms cognitive reappraisal management.
Safe relationships, co-regulation, and body-based practices are particularly emphasized.